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We provide simple study guide with writing prompts, scenery, masks & props and some percussion instruments for the children to use during the performance.

Two tables on cleared stage, space (a different cleared classroom or larger space to work in), a table in lobby area for our freestanding display, stairs/risers/gym mats on floor, centered, in front of stage for optional access to stage, stage lights in working order (brief meeting with someone who knows how to work them), and cart to carry heavy props and speakers.

I can name several famous poets .I can act out and recite some of "Hold Fast to Dreams!" by the great Langston Hughes. I can use my voice in different ways to change the feeling of a poem when I recite it.I can create a group poem with my classmates.

Hold Fast To Dreams: Bringing Poetry to Life and the Stage! This program consists of two parts. One: Grumbling Gryphons director Leslie Elias and winner of 2018 Connecticut Arts Hero Award can work solo or with actors/ teachers with individual classes in a pre-performance poetry and drama workshop. Leslie and actor (s) will work with classroom students to generate ideas and come up with a short performance piece to share in the performance with Grumbling Gryphons. Well-known poetry that span the ages by famous poets (may include Shakespeare, T.S. Eliot. Langston Hughes, Maya Angelou, E.E. Cummings, Shel Silverstein, Emily Dickinson, Robert Frost, William Carlos Williams, Ogden Nash and more) as well as modern day poetry (such as rap and new genres) in the performance, depending on time and age level . If time allows, we will incorporate original work of the students into the performance. During the pre-performance, each group under our guidance and direction will enact a group poem. These students will perform this in our presentation using movement, drama and vocal expressions. Note: We offer an additional special option to teachers to send us their students poetry in advance, based on several writing prompts, which we will provide in advance of our visit. We will choose one to five of the student"s poems that our company will dramatize and perform in our production! At the end of the performance of our play, we will lead a follow up discussion with the students to ensure and assess their understanding.

Parent Engagement Opportunities: We encourage teachers, administrative staff and parents to participate and join in on this fun, educational program, both during workshops and the performance. The children enjoy seeing their teachers up on stage with them. Teachers and parents are a great help if they play along in the scene with the students. No prior theatrical experience needed! Adults can help by either being in the scenes, or by handing out masks/props at the beginning of workshops/performance. There is no limit to caregivers' participation, the more the merrier!